David Jeffrey praises Gary Thompson after midfielder stars against Cliftonville

Gary Thomspon

Published:07:00Tuesday 13 September 2016

Ballymena United boss David Jeffrey singled out one player for special praise after Saturday’s 3-2 victory over Cliftonville at the Showgrounds.

The boss was pleased with all his players efforts but midfielder Gary Thompson was the man he remarked on.

“The player I really have to pick out today after Allan Jenkins came across and felt really unwell.

“But typical of Allen, he wanted to be here but when he spoke to me before the game I said ‘no.’

“So we brought Gary Thompson in and he was the played that epitomised everything that was good about the team.

“He was brilliant and I thought he worked his socks off. He played really well and I thought Tony Kane and Gary dove tailed very well. Tony scored two great penalties, but for commitment, effort and desire I thought Gary was superb,” he added.

And Jeffrey also commented on goal scorer Cathair Friel.

“He has scored six goals in eight games.

“He epitomises the players we were looking for. Young men who were hungry and wanted an opportunity to play at this level and learn. He scores goals but he works very hard for the team.”